81_FR_58989 81 FR 58823 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

81 FR 58823 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 166 (August 26, 2016)

Page Range58823-58826
FR Document2016-20381

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A318 and A319 series airplanes, Model A320-211, -212, - 214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes, and Model A321 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of a partial loss of the no-back brake (NBB) efficiency during endurance qualification tests on the trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA). This AD requires inspecting certain THSAs to determine the number of total flight cycles the THSA has accumulated, and replacing the THSA if necessary. We are issuing this AD to prevent premature wear of the carbon friction disks on the NBB of the THSA, which could lead to reduced braking efficiency in certain load conditions, and, in conjunction with the inability of the power gear train to keep the ball screw in its last commanded position, could result in uncommanded movements of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer and loss of control of the airplane.

Federal Register, Volume 81 Issue 166 (Friday, August 26, 2016)
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 166 (Friday, August 26, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 58823-58826]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2016-20381]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2016-3696; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-113-AD; 
Amendment 39-18625; AD 2016-17-12]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
Airbus Model A318 and A319 series airplanes, Model A320-211, -212, -
214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes, and Model A321 series airplanes. 
This AD was prompted by a report of a partial loss of the no-back brake 
(NBB) efficiency during endurance qualification tests on the trimmable 
horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA). This AD requires inspecting 
certain THSAs to determine the number of total flight cycles the THSA 
has accumulated, and replacing the THSA if necessary. We are issuing 
this AD to prevent premature wear of the carbon friction disks on the 
NBB of the THSA, which could lead to reduced braking efficiency in 
certain load conditions, and, in conjunction with the inability of the 
power gear train to keep the ball screw in its last commanded position, 
could result in uncommanded movements of the trimmable horizontal 
stabilizer and loss of control of the airplane.

DATES: This AD is effective September 30, 2016.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of September 
30, 2016.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice 
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax 
+33 5 61 93 44 51; email [email protected]; Internet 
http://www.airbus.com. You may view this referenced service information 
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., 
Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the 
FAA, call 425-227-1221. It is also available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-
3696.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-
3696; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket 
contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and 
other information. The street address for the Docket Office (telephone 
800-647-5527) is Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.

[[Page 58824]]


FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405; 
fax 425-227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Airbus Model A318 and 
A319 series airplanes, Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 
airplanes, and Model A321 series airplanes. The NPRM published in the 
Federal Register on February 17, 2016 (81 FR 8023) (``the NPRM'').
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2015-0080, dated May 7, 2015 (referred to after 
this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the 
MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A318 and 
A319 series airplanes, Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 
airplanes, and Model A321 series airplanes. The MCAI states:

    During endurance qualification tests on A380 Trimmable 
Horizontal Stabilizer Actuator (THSA), a partial loss of the no-back 
brake (NBB) efficiency was experienced. Investigation results 
concluded that this particular malfunction was due to an ageing/
endurance issue of the surfaces of the NBB carbon friction disks, 
leading to a partial loss of braking efficiency in some specific 
aerodynamic load conditions.
    Due to design similarity on A320 family fleet, the same tests 
were initiated by the THSA manufacturer on certain SA [single-aisle] 
type THSA, sampled from the field. Subject tests confirmed that THSA 
Part Number (P/N) 47145 series, as installed on A320 family 
aeroplanes, are also affected by this partial loss of NBB 
efficiency.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, and in 
conjunction with the power gear train not able to keep the ball 
screw in its last commanded position, could lead to an uncommanded 
movement of the THS, possibly resulting in loss of control of the 
aeroplane.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires 
[inspecting certain THSAs to determine the number of total flight 
cycles the THSA has accumulated and replacing THSAs having certain 
total flight cycles] . . . .

    You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-
3696.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and 
the FAA's response to each comment.

Request To Refer to the Latest Service Information

    Airbus requested that we refer to the latest service information: 
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1242, Revision 01, dated February 4, 
2016 (we referred to Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1242, dated 
February 9, 2015, as the appropriate source of service information for 
accomplishing the replacement specified in the NPRM). Airbus also 
requested that we provide credit for previous actions done per Airbus 
Service Bulletin A320-27-1242, dated February 9, 2015.
    We agree with the request to refer to the latest service 
information. Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1242, Revision 01, dated 
February 4, 2016, includes updated information and specifies that no 
additional work is necessary for airplanes modified by the previous 
issue. We have revised paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD to refer 
to Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1242, Revision 01, dated February 4, 
2016. We have also added new paragraph (k) to this AD (and redesignated 
subsequent paragraphs accordingly) to provide credit for actions done 
as specified in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1242, dated February 9, 
2015.

Request To Extend the Compliance Times

    United Airlines (UAL) requested that we extend the compliance times 
proposed in the NPRM. UAL stated that U.S. operators receive less time 
to prepare and plan compared to their counterparts in Europe who follow 
EASA AD 2015-0080, dated May 7, 2015. UAL noted that the large amount 
of THSAs that need to be replaced will cause cancellations, spare 
shortages, and interruptions to its operation. UAL recommended a later 
compliance time than proposed in paragraph (g)(2) of the proposed AD.
    We disagree with the request to extend the compliance time. UAL did 
not provide data to substantiate that an extension to the compliance 
time will provide an acceptable level of safety. We determine AD 
compliance times primarily on our assessment of the safety risk. Some 
safety issues are more time-sensitive than others, so we consider the 
overall risk to the fleet, including the severity of the failure and 
the likelihood of the failure's occurrence.
    We and our colleagues in the foreign civil airworthiness 
authorities (in this case, EASA) work closely with manufacturers to 
ensure that all appropriate actions are taken at appropriate times to 
mitigate risks to the fleet and address identified unsafe conditions. 
In addition, U.S. operators have the same opportunity as their European 
counterparts to prepare and plan by reviewing and providing comments to 
EASA's proposed airworthiness directives (PADs). An EASA PAD is a 
rulemaking document similar to the FAA's NPRM. In most cases, the FAA 
follows the intent of the AD issued by the state of design; therefore, 
we encourage U.S. operators to provide feedback to EASA PADs, which are 
accessible at the following link: http://ad.easa.europa.eu.
    For this AD, we determined that accomplishing the replacements 
before specific dates, as stated in the MCAI, are necessary in order to 
address the identified unsafe condition in a timely manner. Therefore, 
we have not changed this AD in this regard. However, under the 
provisions of paragraph (l)(1) of this AD, we may approve requests for 
adjustments to the compliance time if data are submitted to 
substantiate that such an adjustment would provide an acceptable level 
of safety.

Request To Remove Replacement Requirement

    UAL requested that we remove the replacement requirement specified 
by paragraph (h)(2) of the proposed AD. UAL stated that the 
requirements in paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of the proposed AD are 
contradictory. UAL noted that operators will not be able to predict the 
future number of flight cycles. UAL stated, as an example, that a THSA 
having accumulated 38,000 total flight cycles on the effective date 
would be out of compliance with paragraph (h)(2) of the proposed AD 
when the AD becomes effective, since the THSA has exceeded 36,000 total 
flight cycles.
    We disagree with the request to remove paragraph (h)(2) of this AD. 
However, we do find it necessary to clarify the requirements. After 
accomplishing each inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, 
operators must comply with paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, which mandates 
the first requirement for THSA replacement after each inspection of the 
THSAs if any part number 47145-(XXX) is found and the THSA has exceeded 
the corresponding flight-cycle limits specified in

[[Page 58825]]

paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD.
    Paragraph (h)(2) of this AD establishes the life limit of the THSA 
as of each date specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this 
AD and mandates replacement before the corresponding flight-cycle 
limit. The flight-cycle limit varies on each date specified in 
paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD. Paragraphs (h)(1) and 
(h)(2) of this AD are separate requirements that do not conflict.
    For example, if the THSA has accumulated 38,000 total flight cycles 
as of the effective date of this AD, then paragraph (h)(1) of this AD 
does not require replacement immediately (on the effective date of this 
AD) since the THSA has fewer than 40,000 total flight cycles (which is 
the flight-cycle limit specified in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD). That 
THSA would be subject to the compliance time of paragraph (h)(2) of 
this AD, which requires that, as of the effective date of this AD, the 
THSA must be replaced before exceeding 40,000 total flight cycles until 
the next inspection is done before December 31, 2016. The new flight-
cycle limit as of that date is 36,000 total flight cycles (which is the 
flight-cycle limit specified in paragraph (g)(2) of this AD).
    Each U.S. operator has unique fleet utilization data that can 
assist in predicting the number of flight cycles accumulated on the 
THSA and therefore can estimate when a THSA must be replaced. However, 
under the provisions of paragraph (l)(1) of this AD, we may approve 
requests for adjustments to the compliance time for replacing the THSA 
if data are submitted to substantiate that such an adjustment would 
provide an acceptable level of safety. We have not changed this AD in 
this regard.

Change to Paragraph (j) of This AD

    We made minor changes to the language in paragraph (j) of this AD 
to clarify the parts installation limitation.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, 
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
this AD with the changes described previously and minor editorial 
changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM.
    We also determined that these changes will not increase the 
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    We reviewed Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1242, Revision 01, 
dated February 4, 2016. The service information describes procedures 
for replacing the THSA with a serviceable THSA. This service 
information is reasonably available because the interested parties have 
access to it through their normal course of business or by the means 
identified in the ADDRESSES section.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 959 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We also estimate that it would take about 1 work-hour per product 
to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor 
rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost 
of this AD on U.S. operators to be $81,515, or $85 per product.
    In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would 
take about 21 work-hours and require parts costing $26,500, for a cost 
of $28,285 per product. We have no way of determining the number of 
aircraft that might need this action.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation 
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's 
authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications 
under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct 
effect on the States, on the relationship between the national 
government and the States, or on the distribution of power and 
responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
    3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and
    4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

Adoption of the Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

2016-17-12 Airbus: Amendment 39-18625; Docket No. FAA-2016-3696; 
Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-113-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective September 30, 2016.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus airplanes, certificated in any 
category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and 
(c)(4) of this AD, all manufacturer serial numbers.
    (1) Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -122 airplanes.
    (2) Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, and -133 
airplanes.
    (3) Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes.
    (4) Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 
airplanes.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 27, Flight 
Controls.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a report of a partial loss of the no-
back brake (NBB) efficiency during endurance qualification tests on 
the trimmable horizontal stabilizer

[[Page 58826]]

actuator (THSA). We are issuing this AD to prevent premature wear of 
the carbon friction disks on the NBB of the THSA, which could lead 
to reduced braking efficiency in certain load conditions, and, in 
conjunction with the inability of the power gear train to keep the 
ball screw in its last commanded position, could result in 
uncommanded movements of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer and 
loss of control of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Inspection To Determine THSA Part Number and Accumulated Total 
Flight Cycles

    No later than each date specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through 
(g)(5) of this AD: Inspect the THSA to determine if it has a part 
number (P/N) 47145-(XXX), and, if any THSA P/N 47145-(XXX) is found, 
determine the total number of flight cycles accumulated since the 
THSA's first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent 
NBB replacement, whichever is later. A review of airplane delivery 
or maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if 
the part number of the THSA can be conclusively determined from that 
review. In case maintenance records concerning the most recent NBB 
disk replacement are unavailable or incomplete, the total flight 
cycles accumulated since first installation of the THSA on an 
airplane apply.
    (1) As of the effective date of this AD: The THSA flight-cycle 
limit (since first installation on an airplane, or since the most 
recent NBB replacement, whichever is later) is 40,000 total flight 
cycles.
    (2) As of December 31, 2016: The THSA flight-cycle limit (since 
first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent NBB 
replacement, whichever is later) is 36,000 total flight cycles.
    (3) As of December 31, 2017: The THSA flight-cycle limit (since 
first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent NBB 
replacement, whichever is later) is 33,600 total flight cycles.
    (4) As of December 31, 2018: The THSA flight-cycle limit (since 
first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent NBB 
replacement, whichever is later) is 31,600 total flight cycles.
    (5) As of December 31, 2019: The THSA flight-cycle limit (since 
first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent NBB 
replacement, whichever is later) is 30,000 total flight cycles.

(h) Replacements

    For airplanes with any THSA P/N 47145-(XXX): Do the replacements 
required by paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD.
    (1) No later than each date specified in paragraphs (g)(1) 
through (g)(5) of this AD, replace all THSA that have reached or 
exceeded on each date the corresponding number of flight cycles 
specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD. Do the 
replacement in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1242, Revision 01, dated February 4, 
2016. Affected THSAs must be replaced with serviceable THSAs.
    (2) As of each date specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through 
(g)(5) of this AD, and before exceeding the flight cycle limit 
corresponding to each date, as applicable: Replace each THSA with a 
serviceable THSA, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions 
of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1242, Revision 01, dated February 
4, 2016.

(i) Definition of Serviceable THSA

    For the purposes of this AD: A serviceable THSA is a THSA that 
has not exceeded the applicable flight-cycle limits, as specified 
paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD, since first 
installation of the THSA on an airplane or since last NBB 
replacement, whichever is later.

    Note 1 to paragraph (i) of this AD: Guidance for NBB disc 
replacement can be found in UTC Aerospace Systems Service Bulletin 
47145-27-17, Revision 1, dated July 21, 2015.

(j) Parts Installation Limitation

    As of each date specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of 
this AD, as applicable, only installation of a serviceable THSA P/N 
47145-(XXX) is allowed on an airplane.

(k) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph 
(h) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective 
date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1242, dated 
February 9, 2015.

(l) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using 
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 
39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Sanjay 
Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-
3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149. Information may be 
emailed to: [email protected]. Before using any 
approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or 
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight 
standards district office/certificate holding district office. The 
AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD.
    (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD 
to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be 
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International 
Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the 
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design 
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval 
must include the DOA-authorized signature.
    (3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any service information 
contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those 
procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any 
procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended. 
Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be 
deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the 
operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining 
approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as 
RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy 
condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests 
identified as RC require approval of an AMOC.

(m) Special Flight Permits

    Special flight permits, as described in Section 21.197 and 
Section 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 
and 21.199), are not allowed.

(n) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2015-0080, dated May 7, 2015, 
for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on 
the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and 
locating Docket No. FAA-2016-3696.
    (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in 
paragraphs (o)(3) and (o)(4) of this AD.

(o) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1242, Revision 01, dated 
February 4, 2016.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 
61 93 44 51; email [email protected]; Internet http://www.airbus.com.
    (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
425-227-1221.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on August 18, 2016.
Dorr M. Anderson,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-20381 Filed 8-25-16; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P



                                                              Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 166 / Friday, August 26, 2016 / Rules and Regulations                                        58823

                                           pylon wiring bracket. We are issuing this AD            (i) Related Information                               airplanes, Model A320–211, –212, –214,
                                           to detect and correct cracking in the engine               For more information about this AD,                –231, –232, and –233 airplanes, and
                                           pylon wiring bracket. Such cracking could               contact Fnu Winarto, Aerospace Engineer,              Model A321 series airplanes. This AD
                                           result in damage to adjacent power feeders,             Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM–130S,               was prompted by a report of a partial
                                           subsequent electrical arcing in a flammable             FAA, Seattle ACO, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,               loss of the no-back brake (NBB)
                                           leakage zone, and consequent uncontrollable             Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–                efficiency during endurance
                                           fire.                                                   6659; fax: 425–917–6590; email:                       qualification tests on the trimmable
                                           (f) Compliance                                          fnu.winarto@faa.gov.
                                                                                                                                                         horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA).
                                             Comply with this AD within the                        (j) Material Incorporated by Reference                This AD requires inspecting certain
                                           compliance times specified, unless already                 (1) The Director of the Federal Register           THSAs to determine the number of total
                                           done.                                                   approved the incorporation by reference               flight cycles the THSA has accumulated,
                                                                                                   (IBR) of the service information listed in this       and replacing the THSA if necessary.
                                           (g) One-Time Inspection and Corrective                  paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
                                           Actions                                                                                                       We are issuing this AD to prevent
                                                                                                   part 51.                                              premature wear of the carbon friction
                                              Within 88 months after the effective date               (2) You must use this service information          disks on the NBB of the THSA, which
                                           of this AD: Do a one-time general visual                as applicable to do the actions required by
                                           inspection of the engine pylon wiring bracket           this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
                                                                                                                                                         could lead to reduced braking efficiency
                                           on the left wing for the presence of an                    (i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–            in certain load conditions, and, in
                                           existing corner relief fillet, in accordance            81205–SB570012–00, Issue 001, dated March             conjunction with the inability of the
                                           with Part 1 of the Accomplishment                       14, 2013.                                             power gear train to keep the ball screw
                                           Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin              (ii) Reserved.                                     in its last commanded position, could
                                           B787–81205–SB570012–00, Issue 001, dated                   (3) For service information identified in          result in uncommanded movements of
                                           March 14, 2013. Within 88 months after the              this AD, contact Boeing Commercial                    the trimmable horizontal stabilizer and
                                           effective date of this AD, do all applicable            Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services                 loss of control of the airplane.
                                           corrective actions specified in paragraph               Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65,
                                           (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD.                            Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206–                DATES:  This AD is effective September
                                              (1) For airplanes on which the engine                544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680;              30, 2016.
                                           pylon wiring bracket has a corner relief fillet,        Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com.                 The Director of the Federal Register
                                                                                                      (4) You may view this referenced service
                                           re-identify the part number of the engine                                                                     approved the incorporation by reference
                                           pylon wiring bracket, in accordance with Part           information at the FAA, Transport Airplane
                                                                                                   Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton,            of a certain publication listed in this AD
                                           2 of the Accomplishment Instructions of                                                                       as of September 30, 2016.
                                                                                                   WA. For information on the availability of
                                           Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205–
                                                                                                   this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.          ADDRESSES:   For service information
                                           SB570012–00, Issue 001, dated March 14,
                                                                                                      (5) You may view this service information          identified in this final rule, contact
                                           2013.                                                   that is incorporated by reference at the
                                              (2) For airplanes on which the engine                National Archives and Records
                                                                                                                                                         Airbus, Airworthiness Office—EIAS, 1
                                           pylon wiring bracket does not have a corner             Administration (NARA). For information on             Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707
                                           relief fillet, replace the engine pylon wiring          the availability of this material at NARA, call       Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5
                                           bracket with a new bracket, in accordance               202–741–6030, or go to: http://                       61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email
                                           with Part 3 of the Accomplishment                       www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-            account.airworth-eas@airbus.com;
                                           Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin           locations.html.                                       Internet http://www.airbus.com. You
                                           B787–81205–SB570012–00, Issue 001, dated                                                                      may view this referenced service
                                           March 14, 2013.                                           Issued in Renton, Washington, on August
                                                                                                   16, 2016.                                             information at the FAA, Transport
                                           (h) Alternative Methods of Compliance                   Dorr M. Anderson,                                     Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue
                                           (AMOCs)
                                                                                                   Acting Manager, Transport Airplane                    SW., Renton, WA. For information on
                                              (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft                    Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.          the availability of this material at the
                                           Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the                [FR Doc. 2016–20374 Filed 8–25–16; 8:45 am]           FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also
                                           authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if              BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
                                                                                                                                                         available on the Internet at http://
                                           requested using the procedures found in 14                                                                    www.regulations.gov by searching for
                                           CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,                                                                   and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
                                           send your request to your principal inspector                                                                 3696.
                                                                                                   DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
                                           or local Flight Standards District Office, as
                                           appropriate. If sending information directly                                                                  Examining the AD Docket
                                                                                                   Federal Aviation Administration
                                           to the manager of the ACO, send it to the
                                           attention of the person identified in
                                                                                                                                                           You may examine the AD docket on
                                           paragraph (i) of this AD. Information may be
                                                                                                   14 CFR Part 39                                        the Internet at http://
                                           emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-                     [Docket No. FAA–2016–3696; Directorate
                                                                                                                                                         www.regulations.gov by searching for
                                           Requests@faa.gov.                                       Identifier 2015–NM–113–AD; Amendment                  and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
                                              (2) Before using any approved AMOC,                  39–18625; AD 2016–17–12]                              3696; or in person at the Docket
                                           notify your appropriate principal inspector,                                                                  Management Facility between 9 a.m.
                                           or lacking a principal inspector, the manager           RIN 2120–AA64                                         and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
                                           of the local flight standards district office/                                                                except Federal holidays. The AD docket
                                           certificate holding district office.                    Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
                                                                                                                                                         contains this AD, the regulatory
                                              (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable              Airplanes
                                                                                                                                                         evaluation, any comments received, and
                                           level of safety may be used for any repair                                                                    other information. The street address for
                                                                                                   AGENCY:  Federal Aviation
                                           required by this AD if it is approved by the
                                                                                                   Administration (FAA), Department of                   the Docket Office (telephone 800–647–
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                                           Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization
                                           Designation Authorization (ODA) that has                Transportation (DOT).                                 5527) is Docket Management Facility,
                                           been authorized by the Manager, Seattle                 ACTION: Final rule.                                   U.S. Department of Transportation,
                                           ACO, to make those findings. For a repair                                                                     Docket Operations, M–30, West
                                           method to be approved, the repair must meet             SUMMARY:  We are adopting a new                       Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
                                           the certification basis of the airplane, and the        airworthiness directive (AD) for all                  1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
                                           approval must specifically refer to this AD.            Airbus Model A318 and A319 series                     Washington, DC 20590.


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                                           58824              Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 166 / Friday, August 26, 2016 / Rules and Regulations

                                           FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:                        Comments                                              the likelihood of the failure’s
                                           Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,                        We gave the public the opportunity to               occurrence.
                                           International Branch, ANM–116,                                                                                   We and our colleagues in the foreign
                                                                                                   participate in developing this AD. The
                                           Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,                                                                          civil airworthiness authorities (in this
                                                                                                   following presents the comments
                                           1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA                                                                              case, EASA) work closely with
                                                                                                   received on the NPRM and the FAA’s
                                           98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1405;                                                                           manufacturers to ensure that all
                                                                                                   response to each comment.
                                           fax 425–227–1149.                                                                                             appropriate actions are taken at
                                                                                                   Request To Refer to the Latest Service                appropriate times to mitigate risks to the
                                           SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                                                                                    fleet and address identified unsafe
                                                                                                   Information
                                           Discussion                                                                                                    conditions. In addition, U.S. operators
                                                                                                      Airbus requested that we refer to the
                                                                                                                                                         have the same opportunity as their
                                                                                                   latest service information: Airbus
                                              We issued a notice of proposed                                                                             European counterparts to prepare and
                                                                                                   Service Bulletin A320–27–1242,
                                           rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR                                                                             plan by reviewing and providing
                                                                                                   Revision 01, dated February 4, 2016 (we
                                           part 39 by adding an AD that would                                                                            comments to EASA’s proposed
                                                                                                   referred to Airbus Service Bulletin
                                           apply to all Airbus Model A318 and                                                                            airworthiness directives (PADs). An
                                                                                                   A320–27–1242, dated February 9, 2015,
                                           A319 series airplanes, Model A320–211,                                                                        EASA PAD is a rulemaking document
                                                                                                   as the appropriate source of service
                                           –212, –214, –231, –232, and –233                                                                              similar to the FAA’s NPRM. In most
                                                                                                   information for accomplishing the
                                           airplanes, and Model A321 series                                                                              cases, the FAA follows the intent of the
                                                                                                   replacement specified in the NPRM).                   AD issued by the state of design;
                                           airplanes. The NPRM published in the
                                                                                                   Airbus also requested that we provide                 therefore, we encourage U.S. operators
                                           Federal Register on February 17, 2016
                                                                                                   credit for previous actions done per                  to provide feedback to EASA PADs,
                                           (81 FR 8023) (‘‘the NPRM’’).
                                                                                                   Airbus Service Bulletin A320–27–1242,                 which are accessible at the following
                                              The European Aviation Safety Agency                  dated February 9, 2015.
                                           (EASA), which is the Technical Agent                                                                          link: http://ad.easa.europa.eu.
                                                                                                      We agree with the request to refer to                 For this AD, we determined that
                                           for the Member States of the European                   the latest service information. Airbus                accomplishing the replacements before
                                           Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness                    Service Bulletin A320–27–1242,                        specific dates, as stated in the MCAI, are
                                           Directive 2015–0080, dated May 7, 2015                  Revision 01, dated February 4, 2016,                  necessary in order to address the
                                           (referred to after this as the Mandatory                includes updated information and                      identified unsafe condition in a timely
                                           Continuing Airworthiness Information,                   specifies that no additional work is                  manner. Therefore, we have not
                                           or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe                  necessary for airplanes modified by the               changed this AD in this regard.
                                           condition for all Airbus Model A318                     previous issue. We have revised                       However, under the provisions of
                                           and A319 series airplanes, Model A320–                  paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD               paragraph (l)(1) of this AD, we may
                                           211, –212, –214, –231, –232, and –233                   to refer to Airbus Service Bulletin                   approve requests for adjustments to the
                                           airplanes, and Model A321 series                        A320–27–1242, Revision 01, dated                      compliance time if data are submitted to
                                           airplanes. The MCAI states:                             February 4, 2016. We have also added                  substantiate that such an adjustment
                                              During endurance qualification tests on              new paragraph (k) to this AD (and                     would provide an acceptable level of
                                           A380 Trimmable Horizontal Stabilizer                    redesignated subsequent paragraphs                    safety.
                                           Actuator (THSA), a partial loss of the no-back          accordingly) to provide credit for
                                           brake (NBB) efficiency was experienced.                 actions done as specified in Airbus                   Request To Remove Replacement
                                           Investigation results concluded that this               Service Bulletin A320–27–1242, dated                  Requirement
                                           particular malfunction was due to an ageing/            February 9, 2015.                                        UAL requested that we remove the
                                           endurance issue of the surfaces of the NBB
                                                                                                                                                         replacement requirement specified by
                                           carbon friction disks, leading to a partial loss        Request To Extend the Compliance
                                           of braking efficiency in some specific                                                                        paragraph (h)(2) of the proposed AD.
                                                                                                   Times
                                           aerodynamic load conditions.                                                                                  UAL stated that the requirements in
                                              Due to design similarity on A320 family                United Airlines (UAL) requested that                paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of the
                                           fleet, the same tests were initiated by the             we extend the compliance times                        proposed AD are contradictory. UAL
                                           THSA manufacturer on certain SA [single-                proposed in the NPRM. UAL stated that                 noted that operators will not be able to
                                           aisle] type THSA, sampled from the field.               U.S. operators receive less time to                   predict the future number of flight
                                           Subject tests confirmed that THSA Part                  prepare and plan compared to their                    cycles. UAL stated, as an example, that
                                           Number (P/N) 47145 series, as installed on              counterparts in Europe who follow                     a THSA having accumulated 38,000
                                           A320 family aeroplanes, are also affected by            EASA AD 2015–0080, dated May 7,                       total flight cycles on the effective date
                                           this partial loss of NBB efficiency.
                                                                                                   2015. UAL noted that the large amount                 would be out of compliance with
                                              This condition, if not detected and
                                           corrected, and in conjunction with the power            of THSAs that need to be replaced will                paragraph (h)(2) of the proposed AD
                                           gear train not able to keep the ball screw in           cause cancellations, spare shortages,                 when the AD becomes effective, since
                                           its last commanded position, could lead to an           and interruptions to its operation. UAL               the THSA has exceeded 36,000 total
                                           uncommanded movement of the THS,                        recommended a later compliance time                   flight cycles.
                                           possibly resulting in loss of control of the            than proposed in paragraph (g)(2) of the                 We disagree with the request to
                                           aeroplane.                                              proposed AD.                                          remove paragraph (h)(2) of this AD.
                                              For the reasons described above, this                  We disagree with the request to                     However, we do find it necessary to
                                           [EASA] AD requires [inspecting certain                  extend the compliance time. UAL did                   clarify the requirements. After
                                           THSAs to determine the number of total
                                                                                                   not provide data to substantiate that an              accomplishing each inspection required
                                           flight cycles the THSA has accumulated and
                                           replacing THSAs having certain total flight             extension to the compliance time will                 by paragraph (g) of this AD, operators
                                           cycles] . . . .                                         provide an acceptable level of safety.                must comply with paragraph (h)(1) of
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                                                                                                   We determine AD compliance times                      this AD, which mandates the first
                                             You may examine the MCAI in the                       primarily on our assessment of the                    requirement for THSA replacement after
                                           AD docket on the Internet at http://                    safety risk. Some safety issues are more              each inspection of the THSAs if any part
                                           www.regulations.gov by searching for                    time-sensitive than others, so we                     number 47145–(XXX) is found and the
                                           and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–                       consider the overall risk to the fleet,               THSA has exceeded the corresponding
                                           3696.                                                   including the severity of the failure and             flight-cycle limits specified in


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                                                              Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 166 / Friday, August 26, 2016 / Rules and Regulations                                             58825

                                           paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this                burden on any operator or increase the                responsibilities among the various
                                           AD.                                                     scope of this AD.                                     levels of government.
                                              Paragraph (h)(2) of this AD establishes                                                                      For the reasons discussed above, I
                                           the life limit of the THSA as of each date              Related Service Information Under
                                                                                                                                                         certify that this AD:
                                           specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through                  1 CFR Part 51
                                                                                                                                                           1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
                                           (g)(5) of this AD and mandates                            We reviewed Airbus Service Bulletin                 action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
                                           replacement before the corresponding                    A320–27–1242, Revision 01, dated                        2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
                                           flight-cycle limit. The flight-cycle limit              February 4, 2016. The service                         DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
                                           varies on each date specified in                        information describes procedures for                  (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
                                           paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this                replacing the THSA with a serviceable                   3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
                                           AD. Paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this                THSA. This service information is                     Alaska; and
                                           AD are separate requirements that do                    reasonably available because the                        4. Will not have a significant
                                           not conflict.                                           interested parties have access to it                  economic impact, positive or negative,
                                              For example, if the THSA has                         through their normal course of business               on a substantial number of small entities
                                           accumulated 38,000 total flight cycles as               or by the means identified in the                     under the criteria of the Regulatory
                                           of the effective date of this AD, then                  ADDRESSES section.                                    Flexibility Act.
                                           paragraph (h)(1) of this AD does not
                                                                                                   Costs of Compliance                                   List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
                                           require replacement immediately (on
                                           the effective date of this AD) since the                  We estimate that this AD affects 959                  Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
                                           THSA has fewer than 40,000 total flight                 airplanes of U.S. registry.                           safety, Incorporation by reference,
                                           cycles (which is the flight-cycle limit                   We also estimate that it would take                 Safety.
                                           specified in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD).              about 1 work-hour per product to
                                                                                                   comply with the basic requirements of                 Adoption of the Amendment
                                           That THSA would be subject to the
                                           compliance time of paragraph (h)(2) of                  this AD. The average labor rate is $85                  Accordingly, under the authority
                                           this AD, which requires that, as of the                 per work-hour. Based on these figures,                delegated to me by the Administrator,
                                           effective date of this AD, the THSA                     we estimate the cost of this AD on U.S.               the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
                                           must be replaced before exceeding                       operators to be $81,515, or $85 per                   follows:
                                           40,000 total flight cycles until the next               product.
                                           inspection is done before December 31,                    In addition, we estimate that any                   PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
                                           2016. The new flight-cycle limit as of                  necessary follow-on actions would take                DIRECTIVES
                                           that date is 36,000 total flight cycles                 about 21 work-hours and require parts
                                                                                                   costing $26,500, for a cost of $28,285                ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
                                           (which is the flight-cycle limit specified
                                                                                                   per product. We have no way of                        continues to read as follows:
                                           in paragraph (g)(2) of this AD).
                                              Each U.S. operator has unique fleet                  determining the number of aircraft that                   Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
                                           utilization data that can assist in                     might need this action.
                                                                                                                                                         § 39.13    [Amended]
                                           predicting the number of flight cycles                  Authority for This Rulemaking
                                           accumulated on the THSA and therefore                                                                         ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
                                           can estimate when a THSA must be                           Title 49 of the United States Code                 the following new airworthiness
                                           replaced. However, under the                            specifies the FAA’s authority to issue                directive (AD):
                                           provisions of paragraph (l)(1) of this AD,              rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
                                                                                                                                                         2016–17–12 Airbus: Amendment 39–18625;
                                           we may approve requests for                             section 106, describes the authority of                   Docket No. FAA–2016–3696; Directorate
                                           adjustments to the compliance time for                  the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:                    Identifier 2015–NM–113–AD.
                                           replacing the THSA if data are                          Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more
                                                                                                   detail the scope of the Agency’s                      (a) Effective Date
                                           submitted to substantiate that such an
                                                                                                   authority.                                              This AD is effective September 30, 2016.
                                           adjustment would provide an acceptable
                                           level of safety. We have not changed                       We are issuing this rulemaking under               (b) Affected ADs
                                           this AD in this regard.                                 the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
                                                                                                                                                           None.
                                                                                                   Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
                                           Change to Paragraph (j) of This AD                      General requirements.’’ Under that                    (c) Applicability
                                             We made minor changes to the                          section, Congress charges the FAA with                   This AD applies to Airbus airplanes,
                                           language in paragraph (j) of this AD to                 promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in            certificated in any category, identified in
                                           clarify the parts installation limitation.              air commerce by prescribing regulations               paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and (c)(4) of
                                                                                                   for practices, methods, and procedures                this AD, all manufacturer serial numbers.
                                           Conclusion                                              the Administrator finds necessary for                    (1) Model A318–111, –112, –121, and –122
                                                                                                   safety in air commerce. This regulation               airplanes.
                                             We reviewed the relevant data,
                                                                                                                                                            (2) Model A319–111, –112, –113, –114,
                                           considered the comments received, and                   is within the scope of that authority
                                                                                                                                                         –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes.
                                           determined that air safety and the                      because it addresses an unsafe condition                 (3) Model A320–211, –212, –214, –231,
                                           public interest require adopting this AD                that is likely to exist or develop on                 –232, and –233 airplanes.
                                           with the changes described previously                   products identified in this rulemaking                   (4) Model A321–111, –112, –131, –211,
                                           and minor editorial changes. We have                    action.                                               –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes.
                                           determined that these minor changes:                    Regulatory Findings                                   (d) Subject
                                             • Are consistent with the intent that
                                           was proposed in the NPRM for                              We determined that this AD will not                   Air Transport Association (ATA) of
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                                                                                                   have federalism implications under                    America Code 27, Flight Controls.
                                           correcting the unsafe condition; and
                                             • Do not add any additional burden                    Executive Order 13132. This AD will                   (e) Reason
                                           upon the public than was already                        not have a substantial direct effect on                  This AD was prompted by a report of a
                                           proposed in the NPRM.                                   the States, on the relationship between               partial loss of the no-back brake (NBB)
                                             We also determined that these                         the national government and the States,               efficiency during endurance qualification
                                           changes will not increase the economic                  or on the distribution of power and                   tests on the trimmable horizontal stabilizer



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                                           58826              Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 166 / Friday, August 26, 2016 / Rules and Regulations

                                           actuator (THSA). We are issuing this AD to              dated February 4, 2016. Affected THSAs                  (3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any
                                           prevent premature wear of the carbon friction           must be replaced with serviceable THSAs.              service information contains procedures or
                                           disks on the NBB of the THSA, which could                  (2) As of each date specified in paragraphs        tests that are identified as RC, those
                                           lead to reduced braking efficiency in certain           (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD, and before          procedures and tests must be done to comply
                                           load conditions, and, in conjunction with the           exceeding the flight cycle limit                      with this AD; any procedures or tests that are
                                           inability of the power gear train to keep the           corresponding to each date, as applicable:            not identified as RC are recommended. Those
                                           ball screw in its last commanded position,              Replace each THSA with a serviceable                  procedures and tests that are not identified
                                           could result in uncommanded movements of                THSA, in accordance with the                          as RC may be deviated from using accepted
                                           the trimmable horizontal stabilizer and loss            Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus                 methods in accordance with the operator’s
                                           of control of the airplane.                             Service Bulletin A320–27–1242, Revision 01,           maintenance or inspection program without
                                                                                                   dated February 4, 2016.                               obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided
                                           (f) Compliance                                                                                                the procedures and tests identified as RC can
                                                                                                   (i) Definition of Serviceable THSA                    be done and the airplane can be put back in
                                              Comply with this AD within the
                                           compliance times specified, unless already                 For the purposes of this AD: A serviceable         an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or
                                           done.                                                   THSA is a THSA that has not exceeded the              changes to procedures or tests identified as
                                                                                                   applicable flight-cycle limits, as specified          RC require approval of an AMOC.
                                           (g) Inspection To Determine THSA Part                   paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD,
                                           Number and Accumulated Total Flight                     since first installation of the THSA on an            (m) Special Flight Permits
                                           Cycles                                                  airplane or since last NBB replacement,                 Special flight permits, as described in
                                              No later than each date specified in                 whichever is later.                                   Section 21.197 and Section 21.199 of the
                                           paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD:               Note 1 to paragraph (i) of this AD:                Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197
                                                                                                   Guidance for NBB disc replacement can be              and 21.199), are not allowed.
                                           Inspect the THSA to determine if it has a part
                                           number (P/N) 47145–(XXX), and, if any                   found in UTC Aerospace Systems Service                (n) Related Information
                                           THSA P/N 47145–(XXX) is found, determine                Bulletin 47145–27–17, Revision 1, dated July
                                                                                                   21, 2015.                                               (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
                                           the total number of flight cycles accumulated                                                                 Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA
                                           since the THSA’s first installation on an                                                                     Airworthiness Directive 2015–0080, dated
                                                                                                   (j) Parts Installation Limitation
                                           airplane, or since the most recent NBB                                                                        May 7, 2015, for related information. This
                                           replacement, whichever is later. A review of               As of each date specified in paragraphs
                                                                                                                                                         MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the
                                           airplane delivery or maintenance records is             (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD, as applicable,
                                                                                                                                                         Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by
                                           acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the            only installation of a serviceable THSA P/N
                                                                                                                                                         searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–
                                           part number of the THSA can be conclusively             47145–(XXX) is allowed on an airplane.
                                                                                                                                                         2016–3696.
                                           determined from that review. In case                    (k) Credit for Previous Actions                         (2) Service information identified in this
                                           maintenance records concerning the most                                                                       AD that is not incorporated by reference is
                                           recent NBB disk replacement are unavailable               This paragraph provides credit for actions
                                                                                                   required by paragraph (h) of this AD, if those        available at the addresses specified in
                                           or incomplete, the total flight cycles                                                                        paragraphs (o)(3) and (o)(4) of this AD.
                                                                                                   actions were performed before the effective
                                           accumulated since first installation of the
                                                                                                   date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin         (o) Material Incorporated by Reference
                                           THSA on an airplane apply.
                                                                                                   A320–27–1242, dated February 9, 2015.
                                              (1) As of the effective date of this AD: The                                                                  (1) The Director of the Federal Register
                                           THSA flight-cycle limit (since first                    (l) Other FAA AD Provisions                           approved the incorporation by reference
                                           installation on an airplane, or since the most             The following provisions also apply to this        (IBR) of the service information listed in this
                                           recent NBB replacement, whichever is later)             AD:                                                   paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
                                           is 40,000 total flight cycles.                             (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance              part 51.
                                              (2) As of December 31, 2016: The THSA                (AMOCs): The Manager, International                      (2) You must use this service information
                                           flight-cycle limit (since first installation on         Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane                   as applicable to do the actions required by
                                           an airplane, or since the most recent NBB               Directorate, FAA, has the authority to                this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
                                           replacement, whichever is later) is 36,000              approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested                  (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–27–1242,
                                           total flight cycles.                                    using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.           Revision 01, dated February 4, 2016.
                                              (3) As of December 31, 2017: The THSA                In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your               (ii) Reserved.
                                           flight-cycle limit (since first installation on         request to your principal inspector or local             (3) For service information identified in
                                           an airplane, or since the most recent NBB               Flight Standards District Office, as                  this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness
                                           replacement, whichever is later) is 33,600              appropriate. If sending information directly          Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice
                                           total flight cycles.                                    to the International Branch, send it to ATTN:         Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France;
                                              (4) As of December 31, 2018: The THSA                Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,                    telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61
                                           flight-cycle limit (since first installation on         International Branch, ANM–116, Transport              93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@
                                           an airplane, or since the most recent NBB               Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind                  airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com.
                                           replacement, whichever is later) is 31,600              Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;                       (4) You may view this service information
                                           total flight cycles.                                    telephone 425–227–1405; fax 425–227–1149.             at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
                                              (5) As of December 31, 2019: The THSA                Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-             1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
                                           flight-cycle limit (since first installation on         AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using                   information on the availability of this
                                           an airplane, or since the most recent NBB               any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate            material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
                                           replacement, whichever is later) is 30,000              principal inspector, or lacking a principal              (5) You may view this service information
                                           total flight cycles.                                    inspector, the manager of the local flight            that is incorporated by reference at the
                                                                                                   standards district office/certificate holding         National Archives and Records
                                           (h) Replacements                                                                                              Administration (NARA). For information on
                                                                                                   district office. The AMOC approval letter
                                             For airplanes with any THSA P/N 47145–                must specifically reference this AD.                  the availability of this material at NARA, call
                                           (XXX): Do the replacements required by                     (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any           202–741–6030, or go to: http://
                                           paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD.                requirement in this AD to obtain corrective           www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-
                                             (1) No later than each date specified in              actions from a manufacturer, the action must          locations.html.
                                           paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD,            be accomplished using a method approved                 Issued in Renton, Washington, on August
ehiers on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with RULES




                                           replace all THSA that have reached or                   by the Manager, International Branch, ANM–            18, 2016.
                                           exceeded on each date the corresponding                 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or          Dorr M. Anderson,
                                           number of flight cycles specified in                    the European Aviation Safety Agency
                                                                                                                                                         Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
                                           paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD.            (EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design
                                                                                                                                                         Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
                                           Do the replacement in accordance with the               Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by
                                           Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus                   the DOA, the approval must include the                [FR Doc. 2016–20381 Filed 8–25–16; 8:45 am]
                                           Service Bulletin A320–27–1242, Revision 01,             DOA-authorized signature.                             BILLING CODE 4910–13–P




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Document Created: 2016-08-26 10:40:10
Document Modified: 2016-08-26 10:40:10
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionRules and Regulations
ActionFinal rule.
DatesThis AD is effective September 30, 2016.
ContactSanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149.
FR Citation81 FR 58823 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

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